Ramadan · RUKN
Why do Ramadan and Eid dates differ?
Because communities may see the crescent on different evenings and follow different recognised methods for establishing the lunar month. A different date does not, by itself, show that a community is ignoring Islamic teachings.
What is the basic rule?
The beginning and end of Ramadan are tied to the lunar month. The Prophet ﷺ instructed Muslims to begin fasting on sighting Ramadan’s crescent and end on sighting Shawwal’s. If the crescent is obscured, the relevant month is completed as thirty days.
Must every country follow one sighting?
Scholars differ. Some accept a confirmed sighting from elsewhere; others distinguish between regions. In Sahih Muslim 1087, Ibn Abbas followed Medina’s sighting rather than Syria’s. Jordan’s Iftaa Department explains the differing positions in the Sunni legal schools.
Do some authorities use calculations?
Yes. For example, the Fiqh Council of North America accepts astronomical calculations under its stated criteria. Other authorities rely on reported sightings. This is a difference in method, not simply a disagreement about when the astronomical new moon occurs.
FCNA: its stated calculation method · Jordan Iftaa: moon-sighting differences
Which announcement should I check?
For your own observance, check the announcement of the mosque or recognised authority you follow. A general web calendar is useful for planning, but it does not replace that announcement.
